Last week, members of the Business Student Advisory Board had lunch with Dr. Pat Raines, Dean of the College of Business Administration at Belmont and Dr. Susan Taylor, Associate Dean of the Undergraduate School of Business. The luncheon provided an excellent opportunity for undergraduate business students to share feedback and discuss ideas for the future. The accessibility of the faculty and staff in Belmont’s College of Business Administration, and the interest they show in our students, is a great benefit.
I had the opportunity to attend a reception for Dr. John Gonas, to celebrate his recognition as the Tennessee Professor of the Year. What a wonderful testimony to the quality of our faculty and the influence they have on our students! After receiving accolades and encouragement by his peers, Dr. Gonas made certain to reflect his achievement back on his students (many of his former students, who he still keeps in contact with, were in attendance). Dr. Gonas’ heart for service and his desire to see students succeed have brought dreams to life for so many, and for that he gives God the glory.
I believe we all left the emotional reception that evening with a smile, thankful for the blessing to be at Belmont. The principles of empowerment, encouragement, challenge, and continuous improvement are embraced in this culture, contributing to the success of the university and the leaders it produces.